Am I ready for round 1, 2021?

2020 has been a write off for most athletes in team sport, Some may have been fortunate enough to get a few games in after lockdown but the majority have missed out on the entire season.

With pre season gearing up for most teams before Christmas now is the time you will be feeling the effects of little or no training during lockdown. Not many players would have ever had this much time off from their sport so we cant tackle this pre season like all the others, our bodies simply wont cope!!

So where should i start ?

In short, aerobic and some technical skill work. This style of conditioning builds the aerobic base you need to be able to recover from higher intensities. As a general rule it requires 1:1 work rest ratio and is done at a sub maximal level normally between 30s to 3-5 minutes per effort

Think longer, slower efforts to start with and equal rest time, As you begin to feel fitter you can start to run at a higher intensity but shorter duration. I like to use shuttles for team sport athletes as it incorporates some change of direction.

During your rest periods you can do some low level skill work eg) juggling for football players or handballs with a partner for AFL, to make the session suck a little less cause lets be honest NOBODY LIKES CONDITIONING !!

Track your sessions over the weeks and write down how you feel/ how hard it was, the aerobic system adapts quite quickly and you will be feeling better in no time at all.

Aim to hit 2-3 sessions per week, some longer slower intervals, some shorter faster intervals over 4-6 weeks.

This is just a very general guide, position, level and time of season all play roles in how you should prepare, If you would like some more information Email alistair@wallacesportsperformance.com or DM on social media